Born on October 4, 1946, his dad referred to him as “my little Skipper;” the nickname stuck and he was called Skip by everyone for the rest of his life. Skip passed away after a short but hard fought battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Left with a ton of memories, his devoted partner of seventeen years, Maggie. His two daughters, Karin (Tim) and Rebecca, one son, Jeremy (Sarah) and two treasured grandsons, Ross and Drew; two brothers, Bruce (Vicki) and Barry. Also, Maggie’s two sons, Luke (Audrianna) and Matt; her precious granddaughter Ruby, who was so very fond of Skip. Maggie’s mom, Agnes Hennessey, her siblings Harry, Sheila, Paula, Carm and Tom. Skip liked you all.

A Professor of History, Skip taught at Memorial University for forty years. His love of teaching and research had an impact on the lives of so many of his undergraduate and graduate students. An international scholar, he taught at many universities all over the world as a visiting professor. His proudest accomplishment was the Co-founder and Editor-in-Chief of the “International Journal of Maritime History” which was published for a period of twenty-five years. A brilliant man, who once received this high praise from a Danish colleague at a conference in Belgium: “Before the Internet, Skip Fischer was the internet.” In 2006, he was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of Liverpool. He had a passion for music, books and travel and was always willing to share his most impressive music collection and library.

At age 14, Skip wrote the lyrics to Bobby Vinton’s hit song “Trouble is my Middle Name.” He worked as a disc jockey at various radio stations in New York over a period of ten years. In high school, he was a talented athlete, competing in games against future NBA great Lew Alcindor (Kareem Abdul Jabbar).
Special mention of Skip’s close European friends especially Peter and Maureen Davies, David and Maureen Williams and Pam Armstrong. Also his many, many friends, colleagues and associates he met along the way that enriched his life.

A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Joe Lockyer for his care and compassion to Skip. Also, all of the nurses and medical staff of 4 South B at the Health Sciences Complex for all your kindness – you are truly angels of mercy.

Predeceased by his parents, George and Betty Fischer. Three very close friends; Helge W. Nordvik (Norway); John Armstrong (London) and Shannon Ryan (Newfoundland).

Cremation has taken place. There will be no funeral service at Skip’s request. A private burial will be held in Harbour Grace at a later time.

Skip’s road was well travelled!!